The latest version of La Cañada Flintridge’s housing element appears to be closer to acceptance but needs further work before receiving full compliance by the California Department of Housing and Community Development, or HCD, according to a letter sent to the city this week.
On Monday, HCD told the city that it had reviewed LCF’s 6th Cycle (2021-2029) Adopted Housing Element and found that it “meets most of the statutory requirements of the State Housing Element Law.” However, the state continued, the housing element “cannot be found in substantial compliance” until the city completes specific adjustments under its rezoning plan. Those include new zoning standards to be completed in four areas: the Adequate Residential Sites to Accommodate the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA); Downtown Village Specific Plan; Religious Institution Housing Overlay; and By Right Approval for Projects with 20% Affordable Units.
Once the city completes these programs, the state said, it will review the documentation and update the status of the city’s housing element compliance.
LCF Mayor Keith Eich said he sees the state’s reply on Monday as a positive affirmation that the city is on the right path.
“Essentially, they are saying our housing element is in good standing, but we need to complete the rezoning elements now and update policy in municipal code to support those endeavors,” he said.
The City Council has been anticipating the need to update the local zoning codes to match up with the housing element since last October when members unanimously approved the lengthy document to send to the state.
“We will now work towards getting the rezoning done as quickly as we can, as appropriately fast as we can,” Eich added. “We will be above board and make sure the rezoning is transparent, like in everything we do.”
In separate news regarding housing in LCF, the city will hear an appeal for consideration of the application of the project at 600 Foothill Boulevard on May 1 at City Hall at 9 a.m. The meeting is open to the public.
First published in the April 27 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
